Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Linked to Hearing Loss?

Both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and hearing loss become increasingly common with age, so it’s little wonder that many seniors struggle with both RA and hearing impairment. But is there a link between RA and hearing loss? Does RA cause hearing loss? Let’s take a closer look.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Hearing Loss

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues. This creates inflammation, deformity, pain, and decreased mobility of the joints. RA is linked to many other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and kidney dysfunction.

The links between RA and hearing loss are still being explored. The Arthritis Foundation found an overwhelming connection between RA and hearing loss, with 42.7% of those with RA experiencing hearing impairment, and only 15.9% of those without RA having hearing loss! However, a study by Mayo Clinic in 2006 reports no difference in test results between those with RA and the general population. How can this be?

Perceived Hearing Loss

One explanation is perceived hearing loss. Even though the hearing tests showed no difference in actual hearing, the Mayo Clinic report stated that people with RA were far more likely to perceive and report hearing loss. People struggling with RA describe feelings of helplessness and overwhelming disability. Coping with the stress of RA means they are more likely to feel helpless in the face of even slight hearing impairment, and will report greater hearing loss.

Medications Causing Hearing Loss

Another link between rheumatoid arthritis and hearing loss is medication. Some medications cause hearing loss. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen, which are often used to manage the pain of RA, can cause hearing impairment. A 2012 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology showed that taking these pain medications 6 or 7 times a week increased the risk of experiencing hearing loss by 24%! These painkillers, such as Advil, Motrin or Tylenol, restrict blood flow to the inner ear. Blood carries oxygen and other nutrients throughout the body, so when less blood reaches inner ear the cells are damaged.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Hearing

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, get your hearing tested! Early diagnosis and treatment are key to successfully implementing hearing assistance, whether for actual or perceived hearing loss. If left untreated, hearing loss leads to more rapid cognitive decline and worse health outcomes. Finally, it’s important to make sure you are taking medications that are not harmful to your hearing. Ask your doctor for pain killers that won’t damage your ears.

So is there a link between rheumatoid arthritis and hearing loss? Yes, there is a connection! While we don’t know if RA causes hearing loss, we do know that those with RA are at a greater risk of hearing impairment. People living with RA report more incidents of hearing impairment, and will struggle with isolation, difficulty communicating, and rapid cognitive decline. All of these symptoms of hearing loss can be treated with hearing assistance. If you’re struggling with rheumatoid arthritis, don’t struggle with hearing loss! Stay informed and get the help you need